Nats, Adam LaRoche begin talks on new contract, according to report

Adam LaRoche is interested in remaining the first baseman for the Washington Nationals for years to come -- and the Nationals are interested in keeping LaRoche.

According to the Washington Times, LaRoche and the Nationals are working on a multi-year contract extension.

"I'd love to (come back)," LaRoche said late Friday night as he digested the end of the Nationals' charmed 2012 season. "I talked very, very briefly with (general manager Mike Rizzo), exchanged thoughts on what we're both feeling.

"I think he'd like me to come back and I've made it clear all year this where I want to play. On the other hand, I've got do to what's right for my family, too."

LaRoche currently has a mutual option with the Nationals for 2013 that would pay him $13 million if it is picked up. If the two sides decline the option, the Nationals would be on the hook for a $1 million buyout.

2012 was a career year for LaRoche, setting a career high in fWAR with 3.8. LaRoche hit .271/.343/.510, with 33 home runs and 100 RBI for the Nationals in 2012. In the NLDS, LaRoche was just 3-of-17, but did launch two home runs -- including a solo blast in Washington's 2-1 Game 4 win.

In 2011, LaRoche hit just .172/.288/.258 in 151 at bats for the Nationals. Prior to joining the Nats, LaRoche spent time with the Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks.